Registration Advisory: Please read through the complete program description before registering. This series includes wine tasting kits as part of its ticket price that must be picked up in Washington, DC.
Note: These programs can be purchased separately. Registration for this series will end by 9 a.m. ET on Friday, July 26, 2024.
Spend three fascinating evenings expanding your knowledge of wine as you travel the world with sommelier Erik Segelbaum in a series of delectable wine-tasting adventures. Each immersive program includes a curated personal tasting kit to enhance the experience.
July 26 Under the Tuscan Sun
Tuscany may very well be the emotional epicenter of Italian wine. With the region's gently rolling hills, rich soils, cool breezes and plentiful sunshine, no wonder its wines are in high demand. In addition to offering long-established appellations such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, many winemakers have enjoyed exploring the freedom to make wines outside of the stringent appellation laws. These wines, unofficially designated “Super-Tuscans,” represent some of the best of the region. Beyond the classics, Tuscany has so much more to offer than meets the eye including compelling, fresh white wines and lighter versions of full-bodied varieties. This virtual tasting trip is guaranteed to surprise and delight.
August 23 Wines of the Mediterranean Coast
Imagine lying on the beach with waves gently lapping at your feet, a gentle fresh breeze in the air, and, naturally, a glass of exciting wine to sip. Enjoy this quintessential vacation experience from your own home without the cost and hassle of airline travel. The shores of the Mediterranean coast offer myriad incredible wines and appellations to explore—from fresh, light reds to tantalizing, mineral-driven whites, and, of course, dazzling rosés. Sip these coastal Mediterranean wines as if you’re on the deck of your own private yacht.
September 20 Virginia Is for Wine Lovers
The vineyards and wineries of Virginia have much to offer. Dating as far back a s Thomas Jefferson’s (not so successful) attempts to recreate some of his favorite European wines, Virginia has a storied history of viticulture. Now, new generations of winemakers are pushing Virginian wine to even greater heights. This session introduces some of the newest and most exciting wines the state has to offer.
3 sessions
Note: View a list of programs with Erik Segelbaum.
Wine Tasting Kit Information
- The cost includes curated personal tasting kits with enough wine for one person to sample the full lineup of wines.
- Additional participants must register individually to receive their own tasting kits, which is an essential component of the series.
- Each session will have separate kits available during two scheduled pick-up times the day before the program and the day of the program, at the Shilling Canning Company (360 Water Street SE, Washington, DC; Metro: Navy Yard-Ballpark station, Green line).
- NOTE: Patrons will receive additional wine tasting kit pick-up information by email prior to the program.
- Due to state and federal laws, Smithsonian Associates cannot ship wine kits. However, SOMLYAY may be able to provide kits to participants outside the Washington, D.C., area (who must cover shipping costs). Please contact erik@thesomlyay.com for more information.
About Erik Segelbaum
Erik Segelbaum is a Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker for 2020 and Food & Wine magazine’s 2019 Sommelier of the Year. He holds the designation of Advanced Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, one of fewer than 600 specialists in the world who hold this level of certification. Segelbaum is the former corporate wine and beverage director for Starr Restaurants, a wine journalist and educator, and chief vinnovation officer of SOMLYAY hospitality and private events consultancy.
General Information
